Apr. 28, 2022
Direct-to-film (DTF) printing is a transfer technology that enables users to print designs onto pet film using water-based pigment inks.
● When compared to direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, DTF offers the ability to avoid fabric pre-treatment, which is often required when printing with DTG.
● While preparing the image for print is particularly important, applying the hot-melt adhesive is equally so with DTF; it uses a hot-melt powder made of polyurethane resin ground into adhesive powder.
● DTF offers the ability to decorate a wide range of fabrics, does not require fabric pre-treatment, is durable with great elasticity and stretch-ability, and is often a cheaper and faster alternative.
When compared to direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, DTF offers the ability to avoid fabric pre-treatment, which is often required when printing with DTG. DTF will also work on fabrics like polyester and nylon, which are often difficult (if not impossible) for DTG. In addition, there’s a much lower learning curve for printing DTF transfers compared to DTG. When compared with dye-sublimation, DTF enables the user to decorate a wider range of fabrics and fabric colors. DTF is also more efficient than other transfer technologies like heat-transfer vinyl because there is no cutting and weeding with DTF, which saves time.
As with other digital print technologies, DTF is great for full-color, photorealistic images. The possible range of color is limited only by the gamut of inks being used. Fine lines, small text, and high detail images are no problem for DTF. All this being said, color profiling can be a challenge for those who are unfamiliar with color management and ICC profiles. Special RIP software is also required to create a white print layer and to mirror the image so the transfer prints in the correct orientation.
To date, the majority of DTF printers have originated from China. They are often modified Epson printers or platforms using Epson printheads (models commonly include 1–4 printheads). Optional configurations include additional printheads to jet added white, CMYK, or fluorescent channels. Print speeds will vary based on the number of printheads. At the same time, however, the available printer models fall within one of three categories:
1.Slow (25–35 sq. ft./hr.)
2.Medium (80–100 sq. ft./hr.)
3.Fast (150+ sq. ft./hr.)
Costs per square foot (including PET film, ink, and powder adhesive) range between $0.50 and $0.90. The reported washfastness durability is above 100 laundry cycles.
While preparing the image for print is particularly important, applying the hot-melt adhesive is equally so with DTF; it uses a hot-melt powder made of polyurethane resin ground into adhesive powder. While there are no harmful emissions, the powder adhesive is exceptionally fine and can generate dust, so it's important to wear respiratory protection when working with the powder. It's also best to keep the inkjet printer at a safe distance from the powder coating process to keep adhesive dust from penetrating the sensitive parts inside the printer.
The powder itself comes in white and black, depending on the general color of the fabric that is going to be decorated. The powder is best applied using an automatic powder shaker for rolls of printed PET film, but it can also be manually applied when using cut sheets of PET film. The biggest factor associated with applying the powder adhesive is achieving a consistent, even coating. Once cured, the transfer is applied at 315°F (157°C) for 15 seconds at medium pressure for cotton fabrics. For heat-sensitive fabrics like polyester, the press time can be reduced.
There are many benefits of DTF printing, such as:
One of the biggest benefits of DTF printing as opposed to DTG printing is that the material does not have to be pretreated, which saves you time and money. It also allows you to print on a wider variety of materials.
Another big benefit of DTF printing is that your desktop computer can handle this application with a few modifications. However, if you need to create items in bulk, it may be worth your while to invest in a DTF printer that is designed for higher volume and larger output.
DTF printing uses less color and white ink when compared with DTG printing, which saves you money.
DTF technology is used for the creation of printed apparel of all kinds from shirts to hats to pants and more.
DTF printing can transfer any kind of image including artwork, photographs, logos, designs, and more to fabric, which is not only limited to apparel.
● T-shirts. One of the most common items created by DTF printing is t-shirts. Always in high demand, T-shirts can be made for a variety of purposes from schools to sports to other organizations.
● Pockets on hoodies or shirts. Printing on a T-shirt may be easy, but when you want the design on the pocket of a t-shirt or the front pocket of a hoodie sweatshirt, DTF printing can help you print on these hard to target areas of garments.
● Hats. From baseball caps and trucker hats to other styles, hats can be difficult to print on without damaging them. DTF printing makes it possible to print logos and designs on hats with challenging shapes.
● Printed tags. Many apparel companies are opting for printed tags on the inside of their clothing products, and DTF printing is one way to achieve this.
● Shorts/pants. Not much different from T-Shirts and other apparel, DTF printing allows logos and designs to be printed on shorts or pants.
● Bags. DTF can print on tote bags, fanny packs, purses, drawstring bags, and many other types of bags.
● Flags/Banners. DTF printing doesn’t have to be limited to wearable fabrics. Other items like flags, banners, and tablecloths can be printed on, for events and fairs.
● Any other fabric items. There are no limitations to what DTF printing can create in terms of garments and apparel.
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